Questions to Ask Your Provider About Medical Inductions
It’s no secret that inductions are routinely offered/recommended in most US hospitals. Some providers might start hinting at having one scheduled around 40-41 weeks gestation. If an induction comes up in your care, here are some helpful questions to guide the conversation:
Why are you recommending an induction for me specifically?
Is this medically necessary, or is it optional/convenience-based?
What’s my Bishop score, and how does that affect my chances of a successful induction?
What method are you suggesting first, and why?
What are the risks and benefits of this method?
If the first step works, can we pause and see if my body continues on its own?
What happens if the induction doesn’t work?
How long can we safely wait before moving to the next step?
What are my options for pain management if contractions become intense?
Can I still move, eat, or use comfort techniques during induction?
Tip: Write these down or keep them on your phone so you have them handy in the moment. Having this simple list of questions will allow for shared decision making when it comes to your care and allow you to make informed decisions.
